Identification module for key making machine

ABSTRACT

An identification module is disclosed for use in a key making machine. The identification module may have a key receiving assembly configured to receive only a shank of an existing key. The identification module may also have a tip guide, configured to receive a tip of the shank of the existing key. The tip guide may have a slot that exposes a tip end of the shank. The identification module may also have an imaging assembly configured to capture an image of the tip end through the slot.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application under 35 U.S.C. §120 ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/263,595, filed Apr. 28, 2014,pending, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 fromU.S. Provisional Application No. 61/866,603 entitled MODULAR KEYDUPLICATION SYSTEM USING COMMON KEY BLANKS that was filed on Aug. 16,2013, and from U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/904,810 entitled KEYASSEMBLY AND DUPLICATION MACHINE that was filed on Nov. 15, 2013, thecontents of all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to an identification module and, moreparticularly, to an identification module for a key making machine.

BACKGROUND

Key making machines are used to create new keys or copies of existingkeys. In conventional machines, a key blank is selected that correspondswith the intended use of the new key or with the existing key. The keyblank is then mounted in a clamp, and cutting wheels are moved to cut apattern of notches within the key blank that correspond with a desiredpattern of notches. The key blank selection process, the clampingprocess, and/or the cutting process may be implemented manually orautomatically. Manual processes, however, tend to introduce errors thatresult in miscut of the key blank.

An exemplary automated key duplication machine is disclosed in U.S.Patent Application Publication 2012/0243957 of Drake et al. thatpublished on Sep. 27, 2012 (“the '957 publication”). In particular, the'957 publication discloses a key duplication machine having a key blankidentification system and a key fabrication system incorporated into asingle apparatus. The key blank identification system uses an opticalimaging device to capture a silhouette of an inserted master key whenbacklighting is turned on. The silhouette is measured to determine adepth, angle, and position of each tooth in the master key, and todetermine if the master key includes a pattern on one side or on bothsides. A comparison of these features with features stored in memoryleads to determining and selecting of a key blank used to duplicate themaster key. The selected key blank is then completely inserted into themachine without regard to orientation, and the key blank is validated toensure that the proper key blank was retrieved by the user. Validationis performed by taking an image of the key blank with the opticalimaging device, and comparing features of the key blank (size and shapeof shoulders, length, width, single side or dual side, number of steps,etc.) to known features of the proper key blank. The image of the keyblank is also used to determine alignment of the key blank. The keyblank is then repositioned by opposing fingers based on the image, andanother image is taken to confirm alignment. Once the key blank isproperly aligned, the key blank is moved onto a fixed bottom member, anda top member is pressed down along a length of the key blank to clampthe key blank in place. Two cutting wheels located at opposing edges ofthe key blank are then independently moved and operated to cut notchesin the key blank corresponding to the notches in the master key. Aftercutting of the notches, another image of the key blank is taken tocompare the newly cut key with the master key.

Although the duplication machine of the '957 publication may improve thekey making process, it may still be less than optimal. In particular,the duplication machine of the '957 publication requires numerous imagesto be captured throughout the identification and cutting processes, andnumerous comparisons to be made. The excessive number of images andcomparisons can increase a time of the process, increase computingrequirements, and introduce opportunities for error, in addition, theindependent nature of the cutting wheels and use of alignment fingersfurther increases complexity of the machine and the likelihood formiscuts. And the configuration of the cutting wheels could result inshortened life of the duplication machine. Further, the duplicationmachine of the '957 publication requires the entire key blank to beinserted into the machine and the entire length of the key blank to beclamped, which can be difficult to achieve properly given the variety ofdifferent key blank heads. The motion of the cutting wheels may also belimited due to the clamping configuration of the '957 publication.

The disclosed identification module is directed to overcoming one ormore of the problems set forth above and/or other problems of the priorart.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an identificationmodule for a key making machine. The identification module may include akey receiving assembly configured to receive only a shank of an existingkey. The identification module further may further include a tip guideconfigured to receive a tip of the shank of the existing key, the tipguide having a slot that exposes a tip end of the shank. Theidentification module may also include an imaging assembly configured tocapture an image of the tip end through the slot.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method ofimaging an existing key. The method may include receiving from a useronly a shank of the existing key into a key receiving assembly, andguiding a tip end of the shank to a desired location with a tip guide.The method may further include capturing a backlight image of a tip endof the shank with a camera through a slot in the tip guide that exposesthe tip end of the shank.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth inpart in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent fromthe description, or may be learned by practice of the embodiments. Theobjects and advantages of the invention will be realized and attained bythe elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appendedclaims.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory onlyand are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1C are front view illustrations of three different exemplarydisclosed key assemblies;

FIGS. 2A-2C are front and side view illustrations of an exemplarydisclosed key blade that forms a portion of the key assembly of FIG. 1A;

FIGS. 3A-3C are front, back, and side view illustrations of an exemplarydisclosed head that receives the key blade of FIGS. 2A-2C to form thekey assembly of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 4 is a front view illustration of an exemplary disclosedduplication machine that can be used in conjunction with the key bladeof FIGS. 2A-2C;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view illustration of an exemplary disclosedidentification module that may form a portion of the duplication machineof FIG. 4;

FIGS. 6A and 6B are side and top view illustrations of an exemplarydisclosed key receiving assembly that may form a portion of theidentification module of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an isometric illustration of an exemplary disclosedfabrication module that may form a portion of the duplication machine ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a top view illustration of an exemplary disclosed dispensingsystem that may form a portion of the fabrication module of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional end view illustration of the dispensingsystem of FIG. 8;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are isometric illustrations of exemplary disclosedcutting system that may form a portion of the fabrication module of FIG.7;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are isometric illustrations of an exemplary disclosedreceiving unit that forms a portion of the cutting system of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an isometric illustration of another exemplary disclosedcutting system that may form a portion of the fabrication module of FIG.7; and

FIG. 13 is a top view illustration of exemplary disclosed accessoriesthat may be associated with the key assemblies of FIGS. 1A-1C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate three different exemplary key assemblies 10 a, 10b, and 10 c, which will collectively be referred to as key assembly 10in this disclosure. Each key assembly 10 may be used as a means forgaining access to a variety of different secure applications, forexample to automotive applications (e.g., door and ignition locks), toresidential applications (e.g., dead bolt and handle locks), and tocommercial applications (e.g., equipment and facility locks). Each keyassembly 10 may generally include a blade 12, and a head 14 that isconnected to blade 12. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, head 14 is a separatecomponent or subassembly of components that is connected to blade 12after formation of desired features within blade 12. It is contemplatedthat head 14 may be fixedly or removably connected to blade 12, asdesired. When head 14 is connected to blade 12, one end or both ends(both ends shown in FIGS. 1A-1C) of blade 12 may protrude a distancefrom head 14. Head 14 may serve as a handle through which a usergenerates torque within blade 12, causing an associated lock to turn andopen or close.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, each of key assemblies 10 a-10 c may be adifferent type of key assembly. In particular, key assembly 10 a mayhave a single edge-cut form (shown in FIG. 1A); key assembly 10 b mayhave a dual edge-cut form (shown in FIG. 1B); and key assembly 10 c mayhave a milled form (shown in FIG. 1C). In general, key assembly 10 a,having the single edge-cut form, may include blade 12 with a singlerelatively thinner lengthwise outer edge 46 that is configured to benotched in a particular pattern (shown in phantom lines as notches 49)corresponding to the lock intended to receive blade 12, and a singlerelatively thicker opposing outer edge 48 that does not include notches49. Key assembly 10 b with the dual edge-cut form may have two opposingouter edges 46 that are notched and thinner relative to a thicker centersection 50. Center sections 50 within blades 12 of both the single anddual edge-cut key assemblies 10 a, 10 b may include one or more channels52 formed therein, such that an endwise cross-section of each assemblyhas a general zigzag shape. Key assembly 10 c, having the milled form,may include relatively thicker square outer edges 51, with a planarcenter section 50 of about the same thickness (i.e., a cross-section ofthe milled form may be generally rectangular). Center section 50 of themilled key assembly 10 c generally has an internal pattern of notches 49that is milled within center section 50 and located away from edges 51,the pattern being variable and corresponding to the lock intended toreceive blade 12.

An exemplary blade 12 for single edge-cut key assembly 10 a is shown inFIGS. 2A-2C. As shown in these figures, blade 12 may include a headportion 16, and a shank 18 that is integrally formed with head portion16. Head portion 16 may join shank 18 at a transition region 20. In thedisclosed embodiment, blade 12 is formed from aluminum, brass, bronze,or another metal alloy through a stamping process and may or may not bepainted or otherwise plated with a colored film. It is contemplated,however, that another material and/or process may be utilized to formblade 12, if desired.

Head portion 16 of blade 12 may have geometry designed to interact withcorresponding geometry of head 14 (referring to FIGS. 1A-1C). Inparticular, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, head portion 16 may be generallyplate-like, having a substantially uniform thickness t along its lengthl from a square shaped base end 22 within transition region 20 to arounded tip end 24. In the disclosed embodiment, thickness t betweenopposing primary surfaces 26, 28 may be about 0.075-0.1 inches (e.g.,about 0.08 inches) and length l may be about 1.25-1.5 inches (e.g.,about 1.33 inches). Head portion 16 may also have a generally uniformwidth w between opposing side surfaces 30, 32 of about 0.4-0.5 inches(e.g., about 0.486 inches). These specific dimensions may be selected toproduce a slip fit of head portion 16 within an internal cavity of head14. Head portion 16 may be engaged on its two primary faces 26, 28 andits two substantially perpendicular side surfaces 30, 32 when slidinglyreceived within head 14.

Each head portion 16 may also have geometry designed to inhibit removalof blade 12 from head 14. In particular, one or more recesses 34 may beformed within side surfaces 30, 32 and configured to receivecorresponding locking features of head 14. Recesses 34 may have opposingends 36, 38 that are angled outward and configured to engage or provideclearance for the locking features, respectively. It is contemplatedthat the angular orientation of ends 36, 38 may be the same ordifferent, as desired. A pair of shoulders 40 may protrude from sidesurfaces 30, 32, at a common location between recesses 34 and base end22. Shoulders 40 may be located a particular distance away from recesses34 and function as end stops for head 14 during assembly (see FIGS.1A-1C). In some embodiments, a shape, size, and/or position of shoulders40 may also be used to determine an identity of blade 12 and/or tolocate blade 12 during a cutting process, if desired.

In some embodiments, an accessory engagement feature (e.g., an eyelet)41 may be formed at tip end 24 and configured to engage a separatelypurchased accessory (e.g., a key ring). In these same embodiments,eyelet 41 may function as an additional or alternative locating featureused during cutting of shank 18, if desired. For example, a center ofeyelet 41 may be precisely located a distance d from shoulders 40 and/orfrom base end 22 (e.g., about 0.7-0.8 inches from shoulders 40).Although tip end 24 is shown as having a generally curved outerperiphery that enhances rigidity of head portion 16, it is contemplatedthat head portion 16 could alternatively have an angled or square outerperiphery if desired.

One or more identification indices may be formed within or otherwiseapplied to (e.g., printed onto, stamped into, or adhered to) headportion 16 and used to identify blade 12 as a particular one of aplurality of known types of key blades. In the disclosed example, twoindices are shown, including a first index 42 and a second index 44.Indices 42, 44 may take any form known in the art for relayinginformation regarding the identity of blade 12, and indices 42, 44 maybe the same or different. For example, index 42 may be a type of indexreadable by a key duplication technician and still visible after head 14is assembled to blade 12. In the same example, index 44 may be a type ofindex that is machine readable and visible only before and/or duringcutting of shank 18 (i.e., index 44 may be located at a center of wherehead 14 is to be installed). Examples of different types of indicesinclude alpha-numeric symbols (see index 42 in FIGS. 1A-2A), bar codes(see index 44 in FIGS. 1A-2A), data matrices, QR codes, etc. Althoughthe depicted blade 12 includes indices 42, 44 located at only one side(i.e. only at primary surface 26), it is contemplated that indices 42,44 could be located at both sides and/or at other positions, if desired.As will be explained in more detail below, index 42 may be used formanual selection and/or manual identity confirmation of a particular keyblade 12, while index 44 may be used to complete a sales transactionand/or to automatically confirm identity and automatically make notches49 in blade 12 within a fabrication module.

In some embodiments, shank 18 may have a thickness different than athickness of head portion 16. In these embodiments, a step 54 (shownonly in FIG. 2C) may be located at transition region 20. This step maybe the result of a first type of blade 12 having either its head portion16 or its shank 18 milled thinner after formation through the stampingprocess discussed above. That is, blades 12 may need to have a commonthickness at head portion 16 to properly receive a common head 14, butblades 12 of different key types may have shanks 18 with a thicknessthat is the same or different (i.e., thicker or thinner). In situationswhere shank 18 is required to be thicker than the common head portionthickness, all of blade 12 may be stamped from a thicker material andthen head portion 16 may be machined thinner to the common thickness. Incontrast, in situations where shank 18 is required to be thinner thanthe common head portion thickness, all of blade 12 may be stamped frommaterial having the common head thickness, but then shank 18 may bemachined thinner. In other words, after stamping of different blades 12,some blades (e.g., the most commonly used blades 12) may be ready fornotching and/or milling without further change, while other blades 12may need to have their head portions 16 or their shanks 18 machined tobe thinner, depending on the requirements of the corresponding locks.But in general, head portions 16 may have the same thickness whenformation of blade 12 is complete. It is contemplated that, in someapplications, a length of blade 12 may also need to be shortened duringthe duplication process.

Head 14, in the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1C, is a subassembly of twosubstantially identical head components 14 a oriented in opposition toeach other. As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, each head component 14 a mayinclude a primary surface 56 and a side surface 58 that is substantiallyperpendicular to primary surface 56. When two head components 14 a areplaced together in opposite orientation relative to each other (i.e.,with primary surfaces 56 facing each other and side surfaces 58 facingeach other), a cavity 60 (shown only in FIG. 3C) may be formed that isconfigured to slidingly receive head portion 16 of blade 12. One or moreconnecting features may be associated with each head component 14 a andconfigured to engage corresponding features in the mating head component14 a, thereby maintaining connection between head components 14 a. Forexample, one or more pins 62 may protrude at one edge of primaryinterior surface 56 and be received within one or more correspondingbores 64 located at an opposing edge of primary interior surface 56.Accordingly, when two head components 14 a are pressed together, fourpins 62 (one located at each corner of primary surface 58) may enterfour bores 64. In some embodiments, removal of pins 62 from bores 64 maybe inhibited to thereby prevent unintended disassembly of head 14. Pins62 may be inhibited from removable by way of an interference fit, anadhesive, or another mechanism known in the art.

In other embodiments, head 14 is a single-piece integral componenthaving many features in common with the two head components 14 adescribed above. In these embodiments, the single-piece head 14 includestwo primary surfaces 56, and two side surface 58 that are substantiallyperpendicular to primary surfaces 56 to form cavity 60. In thisarrangement, no subassembly is required and no corresponding connectingfeatures (i.e., pins 62 or bores 64) are formed within head 14.

In either of the two-piece or single-piece embodiments of head 14, afirst end 66 of head 14 may be slid over tip end 24 of blade 12 andpushed toward shank 18. Two steps 68 may be formed at first end 66(e.g., one step 68 within each head component 14 a) and configured toengage shoulder 40 of blade 12 (see FIGS. 1A-1C), thereby positioninghead 14 at a desired location along blade 12. Two tangs 70 may belocated at a second end 72 of head 14 (e.g., one tang 70 within eachhead component 14 a) and configured to deflect out of the way of blade12 (i.e., out of cavity 60) during insertion and then return to a normalposition (shown in FIGS. 1A-1C) within recesses 34 of blade 12, therebyinhibiting removal of head 14 from blade 12. Each tang 70 may have aproximal end near a center of head 14, and a distal end that protrudestoward second end 72 at an inward angle. The angle of recess end 36(referring to FIG. 2A) may allow for a secure seating of tang 70 withoutbinding (see FIGS. 1A-1C), while the angle of recess end 38 may provideclearance for the inward intrusion of tang 70. In this configuration,the only way that head 14 could be removed from blade 12 would be tocause buckling of tangs 70, which would require significant force. Insome embodiments, there may not be sufficient space within cavity 60 fortangs 70 to buckle, making removal of head 14 even more difficult, ifnot impossible, without destruction of head 14.

In the disclosed embodiment, head 14 is injection molded from a plasticmaterial. Accordingly, head 14 (e.g., each head component 14 a) may havefeatures that facilitate this fabrication method and/or material. Forexample, a pocket 74 may be formed at a location between bores 64 (ifbores 64 are present). Pocket 74 may help to keep all walls of head 14at about the same thickness, thereby reducing the formation of voids oruneven surfaces during molding. It is contemplated that pocket 74 may beomitted, if desired. It is also contemplated that head 14 could befabricated from other materials and/or through other processes.

Head 14 may also include features that improve use of key assembly 10.For example, head 14 may include one or more friction-enhancingfeatures, such as raised bumps 76 at an outer surface 78. These featuresmay help to reduce the likelihood of a customer's hand slipping duringuse of key assembly 10. Head 14 may also have a smooth, roundedperiphery that helps to reduce snagging. Head 14 may be fabricated in avariety of colors and/or shapes.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary key making machine 100 that can be usedto create within key blade 12 a new hitting pattern or a copied bittingpattern of an existing key, prior to insertion of blade 12 into head 14.Machine 100 may be generally modular and include, among other things, atleast one identification module 102, and at least one fabrication module104 in communication with one or more identification modules 102. Eachidentification module 102 may be configured to detect, identify, and/ormeasure distinguishing characteristics of the existing key insertedtherein. Each fabrication module 104 may be configured to retrieve orotherwise receive a particular blade 12 or a conventional key blankassociated with the identified master key, to machine the key blade 12to match a desired profile (e.g., of the existing key), and to dispenseblade 12 after fabrication is complete. Identification module 102 may bepositioned near (e.g., adjacent and facing in the same or anotherdirection as) fabrication module 104 or remote from fabrication module104. Alternatively, identification module 102 and fabrication module 104may be co-located within a common housing. Identification module 102 maycommunicate with fabrication module 104 via wired and/or wireless means.Data associated with the duplication process may be communicated to andfrom one or both of identification and fabrication modules 102, 104, asnecessary.

As shown in FIG. 5, identification module 102 may include a housing 106that at least partially encloses a customer interface 108, a keyreceiving assembly 110, and an imaging system 112. Customer interface108 may be configured to receive instructions from a customer regardinga desired duplication process, receive payment from the customer forcompletion of the duplication process, and/or provide status informationand options to the customer regarding an ongoing duplication process.Key receiving assembly 110 may be configured to receive an existing keyin a particular orientation (e.g., lying horizontally with the shankthereof pointed inward toward the module) and at a particular location.Imaging system 112 may be configured to generate images of the existingkey (or portions thereof) after it is received within key receivingassembly 110, and to direct information associated with the images tofabrication module 104 (referring to FIG. 4).

Customer interface 108 may allow the customer to input instructions,make selections, and/or answer questions regarding a desired duplicationevent. The instructions may include, for example, a number of duplicateblades to be produced, a desired pick up time, a customer's name, adesired delivery address, blade identification information, etc. Theselections may be associated with a desired graphic design to be formedinto or otherwise applied to head 14 (e.g., to be printed onto aseparately purchased key head at an adjacent and connected printer—notshown), a desired color of the duplicate key's head, a desired key headshape to be used with the duplicate key, a desire for duplicationinformation to be stored for future reference, etc. The questions mayinclude for example, a make, model, and/or year of an associated carthat the master key corresponds with; a type and/or brand of lock towhich the master key belongs; and whether the master key is atransponder key. The instructions, selections, and/or questions, as wellas corresponding responses, may be communicated visually, audibly,and/or tactilely, as desired. For example, customer interface 108 mayinclude a display screen (e.g., a touch screen), a key board, a mouse, alight pen, a speaker, and/or a microphone that both communicatesinformation to the customer as well as receives input from the customer.Information received via customer interface 108 may be directed tofabrication module 104 for further processing, and fabrication module104 may provide queues and/or responses to the customer via interface108. It is contemplated that other interface devices may also be used.

In some embodiments, customer interface 108 may also include a means forreceiving payment from the customer. These means may include, forexample, a coin operated mechanism, a bill receiver, a credit cardreader, and/or a receipt reader (e.g., a barcode reader configured torecognize a previous payment having already been received at anotherlocation and/or time). The means for receiving payment may be locatedanywhere within housing 106 of identification module 102, and be capableof directing signals associated with the payment to fabrication module104 or elsewhere for further processing.

An exemplary embodiment of key receiving assembly 110 is shown in FIGS.5, 6A, and 6B. As is shown in these figures, an opening (e.g., atransversely elongated slot) 114 may be formed in a front panel ofhousing 106 to provide customer access to key receiving assembly 110, afixed head guide 115 may be positioned at opening 114, and a movable tipguide 116 may be positioned behind head guide 115. Each of thesecomponents may cooperate to receive the existing key as it is insertedby a user shank-first through opening 114. Transverse sides 118 (shownin FIGS. 5 and 6B) of head guide 115 may be beveled inward toward ageneral center such that, as the existing key is inserted, the head ofthe existing key may engage sides 118 and be urged toward the center(i.e., toward greater alignment with tip guide 116). The existing keymay be inserted until the head of the master key engages both sides 118to about the same degree. In most applications, this engagement shouldresult in the existing key being lengthwise aligned with tip guide 116within a desired angle of about 0-10°, and more specifically withinabout 0-4°. Tip guide 116 may slide along a rail 119, from opening 114inward to a desired imaging position. Tip guide 116 may be manuallymoved by the customer through insertion of the existing key, although itis contemplated that in some applications an additional actuator (notshown) may be used to draw in and/or position the existing key, ifdesired.

In situations where the existing key is nonconventional (e.g., includesblade 12 but not head 14), extra care may be required during insertionof the existing key into key receiving assembly 110. In particular,without head 14, more care may be required to insert blade 12 in acentered manner such that blade 12 is generally aligned with tip guide116 (i.e., since no head may be available to engage the beveled sides 18of head guide 115). In some applications, a temporary head (not shown)may be selectively coupled with blade 12 for use with key receivingassembly 10, and thereafter removed. In other applications, anadditional guide insert may need to be connected to key receivingassembly 110 to properly align blade 12 with tip guide 116.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, tip guide 116 may include a cup-like recess120 configured to receive a tip of the existing key when the shank ofthe key is inserted through opening 116. Although shown as beinggenerally curved (e.g., with a radius and/or depth that inhibits skewingof the key shank to angles greater than about 10°), it is contemplatedthat recess 120 could take another shape (e.g., a cone, square, orrectangular shape), if desired. Tip guide 116 may be tilted downwardtoward the shank of the master key during insertion to reduce alikelihood of the master key slipping out of recess 120. In one example,tip guide 116 may be tilted downward at an angle α in the range of about2-3°. A slot 122 may be located at a transverse center of recess 120, atan end opposite rail 119. Slot 122 may form a window into recess 120. Abiasing element (e.g., a spring, a cylinder, an elastomeric band,etc.—not shown) may be connected to tip guide 116 and configured to biastip guide 116 toward opening 114 in housing 106, thereby further helpingto retain the tip of the existing key within recess 120.

The window formed by slot 122, as will be described in more detailbelow, may provide access for light from imaging system 112 to passthrough recess 120 (see FIG. 5) and form a shadow outline (i.e., asilhouette) of the existing key at a receiver located at an opposingside of tip guide 116. In one embodiment, an end of recess 120 may besloped at the window to correspond with an incident angle of the light,so as to not block the light as it passes through recess 120. It iscontemplated that key receiving assembly 110 may be oriented indifferent ways, so as to receive a generally horizontal key (i.e., a keyinserted by the customer in an orientation where the primary flatsurfaces are generally horizontal) or a generally vertical key.Accordingly, the light may pass through the window and recess 120 to thereceiver in a top-to-bottom direction, in a bottom-to-top direction, ina left-to-right direction, and/or in a right-to-left direction,depending on the configuration of the particular identification module102.

In some applications, a transponder sensor 124 may be associated withkey receiving assembly 110 (e.g., cloning coils may be mounted tohousing 106 at or around slot opening 114—see FIG. 6B). Transpondersensor 124 may be used to detect the presence of a transponder withinthe head of the existing key upon insertion into tip guide 116. Dataassociated with a detected transponder may be directed to fabricationmodule 104 (referring to FIG. 4) for further processing. It iscontemplated that transponder sensor 124 could alternatively be locatedtogether with fabrication module 104, if desired.

Returning to FIG. 5, imaging system 112 may be a vision-based systememploying one or more sources of visible and/or invisible light, and thereceiver discussed above. The receiver may be, for example, a camera 126that is located to any side of the master key during operation. Camera126 may be configured to capture images of the existing key, while thelight sources are selectively turned on and off. For example, imagingsystem 112 may include one or more “back lights” 128 configured to shinedirectly or indirectly toward the existing key from a side opposite(e.g., from below) camera 126. Camera 126, at this time, may capture thesilhouette image of the existing key showing an exterior edge outline ofthe key and a location of reference features of the key (e.g., ofshoulders of the key and/or of the tip seen through slot 122 of tipguide 116—see FIG. 6B). In another example, imaging system 112 mayinclude one or more “side lights” 130 configured to shine light onto theexisting key, one at a time, from an oblique side angle. Duringactivation of each side light 130, camera 126 may be used to generate animage of the existing key showing an interior edge outline of notches 49milled into the flat planar of the blades center section 50 (referringto FIG. 2C).

In some applications, imaging assembly 112 may also or alternativelyinclude a laser 131 configured to scan the existing key (e.g., one ormore critical sections of blade 12) while camera 126 generates one ormore transverse stripe images of channels 52. If multiple stripe imagesare generated, the images may then be compiled into one or morecomprehensive images of channels 52 within the existing master key.Signals generated by laser 131 within identification module 102 may beused to further identify blade 12 and/or be directed to fabricationmodule 104 for further processing.

In addition to determining the bitting profile of the existing masterkey and the geometry of channels 52 within the key, it can be importantto also measure a thickness of the existing master key. And this may bedone in a number of different ways. For example, laser 131 (or adifferent laser—not shown) could create a stripe image across aparticular portion of the existing master key (e.g., across shoulders 40and/or shank 18) and also across a reference feature (not shown) builtinto key receiving assembly 110 (e.g., into head guide 115, tip guide116, or another portion of assembly 110). The thickness of the existingmaster key could then be determined by comparing the laser stripethickness on the reference feature with the laser stripe thickness onthe existing master key. In another example, the same or another laser(e.g., the laser of a fixed laser micrometer or similar photo device)could be placed at a side of key receiving assembly 110 to generate alaser beam directed over a cross-section of the existing master key. Areceiver located opposite the laser may be configured to receive thelaser beam and determine, based on blockage of a portion of the beam bythe existing master key, the thickness of the key. In yet anotherexample, the thickness of the existing master key may be measured via acommercially available linear variable differential transformer(LVDT—not shown). In a final example, one or more mirrors (not shown)may be situated to allow camera 126 to capture a side profile of theexisting master key at the same time (or at a different time) thatcamera 126 captures the backlight image described above. Other ways ofdetermining the thickness of the existing master key may also bepossible. Signals indicative of the master key thickness may then beused to further identify blade 12 and/or be directed to fabricationmodule 104 for further processing.

It should be noted that, in some applications, a particular existing keymay have geometry (e.g., a bitting profile, channel geometry, and/orside-mill pattern) that differs from side-to-side. In theseapplications, it may be necessary for the existing key to be withdrawnafter imaging of the first side, and then re-inserted through slot 114for imaging of the second side. Both images may then be directed tofabrication module 104 for use in separately cutting the two sides of anassociated blade 12. Alternatively, a single imaging process may captureboth sides of blade 12 to avoid the need to withdraw and reintroduceblade 12 into identification module 102.

During some key making processes, it may be possible for contaminates tobe introduced into imaging module 102. For example, lint, dirt, anddebris can be stuck to the existing key when inserted through opening114, and it might be possible for these contaminates to fall off of theexisting key while the key is inside imaging module 102. If thecontaminates were to fall onto portions of imaging system 112 (e.g.,onto back light 128), the image subsequently captured of the existingkey could be distorted. For this reason, imaging module may be equippedwith a contaminate containment device 129 configured to capture thedislodged material and block the material from back light 128). In theembodiment shown in FIG. 5, contaminate containment device 129 mayinclude a plate or cover fabricated from a translucent material (e.g.,from polycarbonate acrylic or glass) that is positioned verticallybetween key receiving assembly 115 and back light 128. Contaminatecontainment device 129 may be removable from imaging module for cleaningpurposes. For example, contaminate containment device 129 may be slidout of imaging module 102 via a slot 133, wiped clean, and replaced.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of fabrication module 104. Ascan be seen in this figure, fabrication module 104 may itself bemodular, and include an associate interface 132, a dispensing system134, a manual inventory system 136, and one or more fabrication systems138 stored within a common housing 140. Associate interface 132 may beconfigured to receive instruction from an operator of key making machine100 (e.g., from a store associate or other user) regarding a desired keymaking process and confirmation of payment received from the customerfor completion of the process, and to provide status information and/oroptions to the associate regarding an ongoing process. Dispensing system134 may contain and selectively dispense blank key blades 12 (i.e., keyblades 12 not yet having notches 49 or channels 52 cut into them) andconventional key blanks (i.e., key blanks having a uniquely shaped headportion not intended to receive head 14) for use in the key makingprocess. Manual inventory system 136 may also contain blank key blades12 and/or conventional key blanks for use in the process. However, theblank key blades 12 and conventional key blanks contained within manualinventory system 136 may generally be different than the blank keyblades 12 and conventional key blanks contained within dispensing system134. The blank key blades 12 and conventional key blanks within manualinventory system 136 may be manually retrieved by the store associate.For the purposes of describing fabrication module 104, both key blades12 and conventional key blanks will be generically referred to as “keyblanks” in this disclosure. Fabrication system(s) 138 may selectively beused to make desired patterns of bitting notches 49 within the keyblanks based on identification data received from identification module102 (referring to FIG. 4).

Fabrication system(s) 138 may generally be isolated from the othersystems of fabrication module 104 (e.g., separated from associateinterface 132, dispensing system 134, and manual inventory system 136 byway of walls within housing 140), such that debris generated from theassociated cutting processes does not contaminate the other systems. Infact, in some embodiments, fabrication system(s) 138 may be completelyseparate from associate interface 132, dispensing system 134, and/ormanual inventory system 136. For example, fabrication system(s) 138could be stand-alone modules, or connected to only associate interface132. In either of these configurations, dispensing system 134 may beomitted if desired.

Associate interface 132 may allow the associate to input instructions,make selections, and/or answer questions regarding a desired duplicationevent. The instructions may include, for example, a number of duplicateblades to be produced, a desired pick up time, a desired deliveryaddress, blade identification information, etc. The questions mayinclude for example, a make, model, and/or year of an associated carthat the duplicate key is to be associated with; a type and/or brand oflock to which the key will belong; and whether the duplicate key is tobe a transponder key. The instructions, selections, and/or questions maybe communicated visually, audibly, and/or tactilely, as desired. Forexample, associate interface 132 may include a display screen (e.g., atouch screen), a key board, a mouse, a light pen, a speaker, and/or amicrophone that both communicates information to the associate as wellas receives input from the associate. Information received via associateinterface 132 may be directed to dispensing and fabrication systems 136,138 for further processing, and these systems may provide queues and/orresponses to the associate via interface 132. It is contemplated thatother interface devices may also be used.

In the disclosed embodiment, associate interface 132 may be physicallyconnected to dispensing system 134 and configured to be periodicallyremoved from housing 140. For example, associate interface 132 may berigidly mounted to a front of dispensing system 134, and dispensingsystem 134 may ride on a sliding drawer mechanism 141. In thisconfiguration, the associate may slide associate interface 132 anddispensing system 134 together from housing 140 by pulling on associateinterface 132. This access may allow the associate to service and/orrestock dispensing system 134, while also conserving space withinhousing 140. It is contemplated that associate interface 132 and/ordispensing system 134 could be mounted within housing 140 in anothermanner, if desired.

As shown in FIGS. 7-9, dispensing system 134 may include, among otherthings, a plurality of different chutes 142, a common actuator 144associated with the different chutes 142, one or more receptacles 146,and one or more ramps 148 leading from actuator 144 to receptacle(s)146. Each chute 142 may be configured to hold a plurality of aparticular type of key blank (e.g., either a blank blade 12 or aconventional key blank) and a particular color, style, and/or size ofkey blank (e.g., blade #66, blade #67, or blade #68—referring to FIGS.1A-1C). Actuator 144 may be configured to push a selected key blank fromthe bottom of a stack of blanks stored within a particular chute 142 andonto ramp 148. After being pushed onto ramp 148, the blanks may slideunder the force of gravity, head-first, into receptacle 146. It iscontemplated that ramp 148 could be replaced with a conveyor belt orother transport mechanism, if desired.

Chutes 142 may be arranged within dispensing system 134 into one or moredifferent rows, each row containing any number of the same or differentchutes 142 and being associated with the same actuator 144. For example,the embodiment of FIG. 8 shows chutes 142 arranged into two rows atopposing sides of actuator 144, with at least two different types ofchutes 142 in each row (e.g., chutes 142 associated with blank blades 12and chutes 142 associated with conventional key blanks). Chutes 142 maybe configured to hold only the head portion 16 of each blade 12 or aconventional key head, with the shanks 16 extending outward through alongitudinal slot 150. In general, all chutes 142 associated with blades12 may have the same configuration and size, as all blades 12 have thesame configuration and size of head portion 16. It is contemplated,however, that each chute 142 associated with a conventional key blankcould have a different size, if desired, to accommodate the unique headconfigurations of conventional keys. It is also contemplated that eachchute 142 could be provided with an insert (e.g., a plastic moldedinsert) that is custom fit on its interior to a particular conventionalkey blank and includes a common exterior, such that a universal chute142 could be utilized for all key blanks.

Chutes 142 may be angled such that shanks 16 extend away from the frontof dispensing system 134 (i.e., away from associate interface 132 andreceptacles 146). With this configuration, as individual blanks arepushed out of their respective chutes 142 along the direction of theirshanks by actuator 144, the blanks may land inside ramps 148 with theirheads or head portions pointing toward the front of dispensing system134. In this manner, the blanks may slide head-first into receptacles146 for convenient retrieval by the store associate.

As shown in FIG. 9, each chute 142 may include a horizontal opening 152at a lower most point that is configured to allow only the first blankin a corresponding stack of blanks to be pushed out of the particularchute 142, while the remaining blanks are prevented from beingdislodged. An end wall 153 may cap off a lower end of chute 142 toinhibit the blanks from falling completely through chute 142. Actuator144 may include a finger 154 configured to slide through a slot formedwithin end wall 153 and through horizontal opening 152 to engage onlythe head of a desired blank. As finger 154 moves outward along the shankdirection of the desired blank, the blank will eventually be pushed outof horizontal opening 152 of chute 142 and fall into ramp 148 (referringto FIG. 7). In some embodiments, chute 142 is a single piece component,wherein end wall 153 is integral with the side walls of chute 142. Inother embodiments, however, chute 142 only includes extruded side walls,and end wall 153 is fabricated as a separate component and subsequentlyconnected to the side wails. Other configurations may also be possible.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, actuator 144 may be equipped with multiplemotors configured to move finger 154 in at least two directions. Forexample, actuator 144 may include a first motor 156 and a second motor158. First motor 156 may be located at an end of dispensing system 134opposite associate interface 132 and configured to turn a lead screw 160connected to a carriage 162. Carriage 162 may be mounted to slide on oneor more rails 164 that extend in a length direction of dispensing system134, as lead screw 160 is turned to draw in or push away carriage 162.The rotation of first motor 156 may be controlled to selectively causefinger 154, which may be supported by carriage 162, to align with aparticular chute 142. Once aligned with the particular chute 142, secondmotor 158 may be selectively rotated to turn an additional lead screw165 that connects carriage 162 to finger 154. The rotation of secondmotor 158 may cause finger 154 to push desired key blanks from theparticular chute 142 onto ramp 148. The displaced key blank may thenslide down ramp 148 and into receptacle 146. In the disclosed embodimentof FIG. 7, two receptacles 146 are shown, one associated with each rowof chutes 142. It is contemplated, however, that both rows of chutescould alternatively discharge keys into a common receptacle 146, ifdesired.

In the disclosed embodiment, dispensing system 134 holds about thirtydifferent types of key blanks within different chutes 142, with aboutone-hundred key blanks of each type in each chute 142. It has been foundthat this configuration can generally accommodate 80-90% of the demandfor duplicated keys. It is contemplated, however, that multiple chutes142 could alternatively house the same types of key blanks (e.g., themost commonly requested key blanks), if desired. In general, the chutes142 located closest to the front of dispensing system 134 may containthe blanks in highest demand. In this manner, actuator 144 may need tomove finger 154 a shorter distance for most duplication events, whichmay increase the speed at which keys can be duplicated. In addition,these chutes 142 may be easier to load than chutes 142 located furtherto the back of dispensing system 134. Dispensing system 134, once filledwith three-thousand keys (30 chutes with 100 blanks per chute) may berelatively heavy. And when dispensing system 134 is withdrawn from thehousing of fabrication module 104, a moment may be created that tends tocause fabrication module 104 to tip forward. In order to prevent tippingof fabrication module 104, fabrication module 104 may be designed to besubstantially balanced when dispensing system 134 is pulled out andcompletely filled (i.e., a weight of fabrication module 104 may create acounter-moment that substantially balances the moment created bydispensing system 134).

Manual inventory system 136 (referring to FIG. 7) may be configured tohouse key blanks that are less commonly demanded by a customer ofduplication machine 100. In the disclosed embodiment, manual inventorysystem 136 may include any number of drawers 166 configured to holddifferent key blanks (i.e., blank key blades 12 and/or conventional keyblanks). One or more of drawers 166 may be divided into differentsections, each section holding a different type of blank. In oneapplication, fabrication module 104 (i.e., associate interface 132) maydirect the store associate to a particular key blank within drawers 166.For example, based on the identity of the master key inserted intoidentification module 102, a visual indicator (e.g., a light—see FIG. 4)168 may activate to direct the associate to a particular drawer 166containing the desired key blank. In some instances, additionalindicators may be located inside of drawers 165, functioning to directthe associate to a particular key blank therein. In an alternativeapplication, the location and identity of the desired key blank may beshown on associate interface 132. For example, an image of the differentdrawers 166 may be shown, with the particular drawer 166 holding thedesired key blank being illuminated or highlighted. In addition, a mapor grid image of an interior of the particular drawer 166 could also beshown, with the exact location of the desired key blank within theparticular drawer 166 being indicated. Associate interface 132 may alsobe able to inform the associate of the unique identifying index 42visible on the desired key blank. Other means of directing the associateto a particular drawer 166 and/or to a particular location within thedrawer 166 may be utilized, if desired. In addition, other means ofstoring the less-used key blanks could be implemented.

After retrieving a dispensed key blank from either receptacle 146 orfrom a particular one of drawers 166, the key blank may be inserted intoone of fabrication systems 138 for formation of notches 49 therein. Inthe disclosed embodiment, fabrication module 104 has two differentfabrication systems 138, including a wheel fabrication system 138 a anda milling system 138 b. It is contemplated, however, that fabricationmodule 104 could alternatively include only wheel fabrication systems138 a, only milling systems 138 b, or only a single system of eithertype, as desired.

Depending on the identification of the existing key inserted intoidentification module 102, associate interface 132 may instruct theassociate to insert the desired key blank into a particular one of wheelcutting and milling systems 138 a, 138 b. For example, if the desiredkey blank corresponds with an edge cut key (single or double), associateinterface 132 may instruct the associate to insert the key blank intowheel fabrication system 138 a. And in contrast, if the desired keyblank corresponds with a milled key, associate interface 132 mayinstruct the associate to insert the key blank into milling system 138b. This instruction may be visual, for example shown on associateinterface 132 and/or through illumination of lights 170 associated witheach fabrication system 138 (see FIG. 4). A chip removal drawer 172 maybe paired with each fabrication system 138 (e.g., located below) andprovide a way to manually remove chips and debris generated by theduplication process.

An exemplary wheel fabrication system 138 a is shown in FIGS. 10A and10B. Wheel fabrication system 138 a may include, among other things, areceiving unit 174, one or more cutting wheels 176 mounted to a baseplatform 178 by way of a movable overhead gantry 179, and an identityconfirmation unit 180. The key blank retrieved by the associate may beinserted through an opening 300 in a front panel 183 of fabricationmodule 104 (see FIG. 4) and into receiving unit 174. While beingreceived by receiving unit 174 (e.g., while shank 18 is passing throughopening 300), identity confirmation unit 180 may identify the receivedkey blank and confirm that it is the desired type of key blankcorresponding to the master key inserted into identification module 102.After identity confirmation by unit 180 and placement by receiving unit174 of the key blank at a desired location, cutting wheel(s) 176 andgantry 179 may be selectively activated to produce desired featureswithin the key blank.

Receiving unit 174 may have any configuration known in the art forreceiving, clamping, and/or positioning the desired key blank relativeto cutting wheels 176. In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 10B, 11A, and11B, receiving unit 174 includes jaws 175 (referring to FIGS. 11A and11B) that are spring-biased toward each other to sandwich the key blankthere between, and a clamp 181 (referring to FIG. 10B) movable from anopen position to a closed position to secure the key blank oncepositioned. Jaws 175 may have positioning features, for example a sideshelf configured to engage edge 48 of shank 18 (referring to FIG. 2A)and mechanically push shank 18 into alignment against a base member 189,an end stop 185 configured to engage the distal tip of shank 18, and/orfeatures 187 configured to engage base end 22 and/or shoulders 40 ofhead portion 16 when the key blank is completely inserted. In someembodiments, a sensor may be associated with end stop 185 (e.g., endstop 185 may be the plunger of a potentiometer) and end stop 185 may bemovable as the key blank is inserted. In this way, a length of the keyblank may be measured as the key blank is inserted, the length beingsubsequently used as a way to confirm identity and/or proper placementof the key blank. It is contemplated, however, that end stop 185 and/orthe sensor associated with end stop 185 may be omitted, if desired. Forexample, fabrication system 138 a could be configured to only cutnotches 49 into key blanks having a known length and, in thesesituations, it may not be necessary to measure the length of the keyblank.

Jaws 175 may be connected to an actuator 182 (e.g., to a motor/leadscrew arrangement—see FIG. 11A) that is configured to move jaws 175 andthe key blank in/out through opening 300, and side-to-side relative tothe rest of wheel fabrication system 138 a. Actuator 182 may, itself, bemounted to gantry 179 (referring to FIG. 10A) such that movement ofgantry 179 results in further movement (left/right and in/out)) of thekey blank relative to identity confirmation unit 180 and clamp 181. Oncethe key blank has been placed at a desired cutting location, clamp 181may be actuated to clamp down on only head portion 16. Thereafter, jaws175 may be completely withdrawn from the key blank by actuator 182,exposing shank 18 to cutting wheels 176.

In the disclosed embodiment shown in FIG. 10B, clamp 181 includes avertically elongated member (also known as an anvil) 184 that isselectively moved downward by a motor 186 to press the key blank againsta support 188. In this embodiment, motor 186 includes a cam lobe 193connected to a shaft thereof and positioned within an opening 195 ofanvil 184. As motor 186 rotates, the shape of cam lobe 193 may causeanvil 184 to raise or lower, thereby clamping or releasing the keyblank. Anvil 184 may be spring biased toward a closed position, forexample by way of lever assemblies 191 connected to opposing sides ofanvil 80, and moved toward the open position by motor 186. One or moresensors 197 may be associated with clamp 181 to monitor the position ofanvil 184 and/or motor 186, as desired.

The placement of the key blank prior to clamping may be controlled basedon, among other things, an image of head portion 16 (referring to FIG.2A) captured by identity confirmation unit 180. In particular, as thekey blank is drawn into wheel fabrication system 138 a, particularfeatures of the key blank may be imaged, recognized, measured, andcompared to an expected location of those features. For example, alocation of base end 22 (e.g., a gap between base end 22 and the outerend surface of jaws 175) and/or shoulders 40 of head portion 16 may berecognized by identity confirmation unit 180 and compared to theexpected location of those features. And actuator 182 and gantry 179 maybe caused to continue to move the key blank until the measured locationis about equal to the expected location. If the difference between themeasured and expected locations is too great and/or a time spentattempting to reduce the difference is too great, associate interface132 may instruct the associate to manually reposition the key blank.

Additionally or alternatively, identity confirmation unit 180 may searchfor index 44 so as to confirm and/or drive placement of the key blankprior to clamping. Specifically, because index 44 may be located at onlyone side of head portion 16, detection of index 44 may provideconfirmation unit 180 with the orientation of the key blank as it wasinserted. That is, if no index is detected, confirmation unit 180 maydetermine that the key blank was inserted upside down. And if index 44is detected, confirmation unit 180 may conclude that the key blank wasinserted properly. Accordingly, identity confirmation unit 180 maydetermine that the orientation of the key blank, as inserted by theassociate, is correct based on whether index 44 is recognized. And afterrecognition, identity confirmation unit 180 may compare the data linkedwith index 44 to expected data associated with the desired key blank. Ifindex 44 is not found and/or the data associated with index 44 does notcorrespond with the expected data of the desired key blank, thenassociate interface 132 may alert the associate that the key blank hasbeen inserted upside down and/or that an incorrect key blank has beeninserted. Thereafter, actuator 182 may be caused to push the key blankback out through opening 300.

Once index 44 has been detected, the identity of the inserted key blankconfirmed, and the image thereof captured or otherwise deciphered,identity confirmation unit 180 may selectively affect operations offabrication system 138 a based on the identity. In particular,confirmation unit may trigger unique positioning of the key blank,unique operation of clamp 181, unique operation of cutting wheels 176,and/or other unique operations of fabrication system 138 a based on theidentity. For example, for a first type of key blank (e.g., for a firstsize, shape, and/or material) inserted into fabrication system 138 a,the key blank may need to be placed at a first position relative toanvil 184 prior to clamping, anvil 184 may need to press on the keyblank with a first force, cutting wheels 176 may need to spin at a firstspeed, and/or the feed rate of cutting wheels 176 may need to be set ata first feed rate. And for a second type of key blank, the key blank mayneed to be placed at a second position relative to anvil 184, anvil 184may need to press on the key blank with a second force, cutting wheels176 may need to spin at a second speed, and/or cutting wheels 176 mayneed to be set at a second feed rate.

Identity confirmation unit 180 may be substantially isolated from debrisgenerated during cutting of the key blanks. Specifically, identityconfirmation unit 180 may be located at a side of front panel 183opposite cutting wheels 176, such that identity confirmation unit 180may be substantially sealed off from the cutting and milling processes.This isolation may help to prevent the relatively delicate components ofidentity confirmation unit 180 from being contaminated with debris. Inaddition, this location may help the identity confirmation process tocontinue while head 16 of the key blank remains outside of front panel183 during insertion of shank 18.

As illustrated in FIG. 10A, cutting wheels 176 may be rigidly mounted toeach other a horizontal distance apart by way of a yoke 190 (e.g.,cutting Wheels 176 may hang from yoke 190), and movable relative to baseplatform 178 by way of gantry 179. Gantry 179 may include, among otherthings, two sets of parallel guide rails 192, 194 that provide formovement of cutting wheels 176 in two directions, referred to as the X-and Y-directions, respectively. Guide rails 194 may be fixedly connectedto base platform 178, while guide rails 192 may be mounted to a carriage196 that rides on guide rails 194. Yoke 190 may be supported by carriage196. One or more motors (not shown) may be connected to carriage 196 and190 by way of one or more lead screws 200, and selectively actuated tocause movement of carriage 196 and yoke 190 along the respective guiderails 192, 194. A separate motor 202 may be connected to selectivelydrive each cutting wheel 176, and both motors 202 may be mounted toslide with yoke 190 along guide rails 192. Actuator 182 associated withjaws 175 may also be rigidly connected to yoke 190 and/or carriage 196.

Wheel fabrication system 138 a may be used to make notches 49 in one orboth edges of blade 12 (see FIGS. 1A and 1B). During cutting of notches49, one of motors 202 is selectively activated at a time, lead screw 200is driven to move cutting wheel 176 into and out of shank 18 along itslength. The amount of movement in the X-direction at a given position inthe Y-direction may be controlled based on the pattern of existingnotches 49 measured in the master key by identification module 102. Fora singled edge-cut key, only one of motors 202 may be activated torotate a single cutting wheel 176 at one side of blade 12. For a dualedge-cut key, both motors 202 may be selectively activated to rotateboth cutting wheels 176. However, during cutting of a dual edge cut key,only one of motors 202 may be used at a time to make notches 49. Inother words, a first of motors 202 and cutting wheels 176 may be used(i.e., moved in and out of the X-direction while traversing the lengthof shank 18 along the Y-direction) to make notches 49 in a first bevelededge 46, and then a second of motors 202 and cutting wheels 176 may beused to make the same or different notches 49 in a second beveled edge46.

It is contemplated that motors 202 and cutting wheels 176 may be used inan alternating manner to produce single edge-cut keys. In particular, ifthe same motor 202 and cutting wheel 176 were always used to produce allsingle edge-cut keys, that motor 202 and cutting wheel 176 would wearout much quicker than the remaining motor 202 and cutting wheel 176.Accordingly, the use of motors 202 and cutting wheels 176 may bealternated between production of single edge-cut keys, thereby ensuringsubstantially equal wear of motors 202 and cutting wheels 176.

It is also contemplated that some fabrications systems 138 a may haveonly one cutting wheel 176, while other fabrication systems 138 a mayinclude the two cutting wheels 176 described above. In particular, somesystems may be designed to cut only a single edge into a key blank,while other systems may be designed to cut dual edges. In fact, it maybe possible for a single fabrication module 104 to include both types ofsystems. For example, a particular fabrication module 104 could includeone or more fabrication system 138 a configured to cut single edgeslocated together with one or more fabrication system 138 a configured tocut dual edges; multiple single edge systems 138 a only; or multipledual edge systems only. Any configuration may be possible.

An exemplary milling system 138 b is shown in FIG. 12. Like wheelfabrication system 138 a, milling system 138 b may also includereceiving unit 174, gantry 179 connected to base platform 178, andidentity confirmation unit 180. However, in contrast to wheelfabrication system 138 a, milling system 138 b may have a single millinghead 204 connected to yoke 190 and driven by a single motor 202, insteadof two cutting wheels 176 driven by separate motors 202. In thisconfiguration, milling head 204 may be selectively moved along guiderails 192, 194 in the X- and Y-directions during milling of notches 49within center portion 50 of blade 12. In addition, a cutting bit 206held within milling head 204 may be selectively raised and lowered in aZ-direction to vary a depth of notches 49, if desired. After identityconfirmation by unit 180 and placement of the key blank at a desiredlocation by receiving unit 174, milling head 204 and gantry 179 may beselectively activated to produce desired features within the key blank.

In some embodiments, the master key that the customer wishes toduplicate may be embedded with a transponder that enables activation ofan associated lock (e.g., an ignition lock in a vehicle). In thesesituations, it may be desirable to code a new duplicate key (i.e., a newkey have a blade notched by duplication machine 100) to match the masterkey with the same transponder code to ensure that the duplicate keyfunctions in the same manner as the master key. As described above, thetransponder code in the master key can be detected and read at sensor124 within identification module 102. And after cutting notches 49 intoshank 18 of the appropriate key blank, the same code may be clonedwithin the transponder of the new key at a cloning pocket 207. In thedisclosed embodiment, cloning pocket 207 is shown in FIG. 4 as beinglocated within the front panel of fabrication module 104. However, it iscontemplated that cloning pocket 207 could alternatively be locatedwithin identification module 102 or separate from both of identificationand fabrication modules 102, 104. It is also contemplated thattransponder sensor 124 and cloning pocket 207 could be combined at asingle location, if desired.

FIG. 13 shows alternative uses of head 14. In particular it may beprofitable to design head 14 to receive items other than just blade 12.For example, accessory items such as a bottle opener 301, a money clip302, a portable media drive 304, a purse hook 306, a key ring 308, and arefrigerator magnet 310 may be fabricated with geometry similar to thegeometry of head portion 16 such that these items can accept and locktogether with head 14 described above. It is contemplated that theseaccessory items may be purchased along with head 14 and blade 12 atduplication machine 100, or elsewhere within the store hostingduplication machine 100. In one embodiment, head 14 may even becustomized at duplication machine 100, for example head 14 may beprinted on, etched, milled, applied with an adhesive backing, etc. tobear a desired shape, symbol, logo, and/or image.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The disclosed key duplication machine 100 may be utilized to duplicate asingle edge-cut key, a dual edge-cut key, and a side-mined key from theblank blade 12 of the disclosed key assembly 10 or from a conventionalkey blank. The disclosed duplication machine 100 may be easy to use andproduce a reduced number of mis-cuts. An exemplary operation of thedisclosed key duplication machine 100 will now be described withreference to FIGS. 1-13.

To begin the duplication process, a customer or sales associate mayinsert an existing key of any configuration through slot 114 ofidentification module 102. In some embodiments, this action may be thevery first action taken in the process and, by initiating this action,wake (i.e., trigger activation of) the associated machine 100. Forexample, a sensor may be associated with tip guide 116 and configured togenerate a signal based on initiation of guide movement, duration ofmovement, and/or cessation of movement, this signal then being used towake machine 100 and/or trigger imaging assembly to capture images ofthe existing key. In other embodiments, however, the customer and/orassociate could alternatively make selections associated with and/ormake payment for an intended duplication process via customer interface108 located at identification module 102, thereby waking machine 100(e.g., the machine could be triggered by insertion of a credit card intothe machine).

As the existing key is inserted through slot 114 into identificationmodule 102, the head of the existing key may engage head guide 115 (ifthe existing key has a head) while the tip of the existing key engagestip guide 116. At this time, movement of the existing key in throughslot 114 may cause the tip of the existing key to push tip guide 116away from the slot 114. This motion may continue until the head of theexisting key engages beveled sides 118 of head guide 115 by about thesame amount. This engagement may cause the head of the existing asterkey to align with tip guide 116 in preparation for imaging.

After the shank of the existing key is inserted into identificationmodule 102, imaging system 112 may be triggered to capture one or moreimages of only the shank of the existing key. The images, as describedabove, may include a backlight image, one or more sidelight images, anda laser scan image. These images may show a location of the tip of thekey, a profile of the shank, and a location of shoulders at a base ofthe key's head (if shoulders are present).

In some embodiments, once the existing key is fully inserted into theidentification module 102, the transponder sensor 124 may be triggeredto detect the presence of a transponder within the head of the existingkey. It is contemplated that this action may be taken before imagecapturing, simultaneously with image capturing, and/or after imagecapturing, as desired. This detection may also include, in someapplications, capturing of transponder data. The transponder data mayinclude, among other things, an identification code; a make, model,serial number, etc. of the transponder; and/or other information knownin the art. The transponder detection and/or data may be used at anypoint throughout the fabrication process to manually, semi-autonomously,and/or autonomously program a universal transponder located within ahead 14 for use with the newly-cut key blank.

Based on the backlight image (i.e., based on the silhouette of themaster key), it may be determined if the existing key is an edge-cutkey, a side-mill key, or in some embodiments simply a key that cannot beduplicated with machine 100. In one example, these determinations may bemade based on the edge profile of the existing key, as captured in thebacklight image. Specifically, if the edge profile is a straightprofile, then it may be classified as a side-mill key. Otherwise, it maybe classified as an edge cut key. In another example, the master key maybe identified as a particular one of a plurality of known keys (e.g.,key #66) and, based on the identification, reference a lookup map storedin memory to determine the class of key (edge-cut or side-mill) that itis and if it can be duplicated by machine 100. The backlight image, whenthe existing key is an edge cut key, may also be used to measure aprofile of the bitting edge(s) of the key. It is contemplated that, insome embodiments, the step of determining the type of key inserted intoidentification module 102 may be omitted, and duplication machine 100may be capable of cutting only one type of key (e.g., only edge cutkeys).

When it is determined that the existing master key is an edge-cut key,the laser scan image may be used to identify and/or measure the channelprofile of the master key (i.e., the shapes, sizes, and/or locations ofchannels 52) in a manner known in the art. In some embodiments,capturing of the laser scan image may only be made after determinationthat the existing master key is an edge-cut key. In other embodiments,the laser scan image may always be captured.

When it is determined that the existing mater key is a side-mill key,the sidelight images may be used together to determine the side-millprofile of the existing key. In particular, each side light may beselectively turned on, one at a time, to capture an inner edge profileof notches 49 at center portion 50 (referring to FIG. 1C). Specifically,by shining the side light across the surface of center portion 50, ashadow may be created within the notched area and the edge of thenotched area opposite the particular side light 130 should beilluminated. By capturing an image at this time, a pattern at a surfaceof center portion 50 along notches 49 becomes visible. When this is donetwice, once with each different side light 130, two separate notchpattern images can be created. The two separate images may then becombined into one comrehensive profile of the inner notch geometry ofthe side-mill key that can be measured and subsequently reproducedwithin the corresponding key blank. As with the laser-scan imagedescribed above, it is contemplated that the sidelight images may alwaysbe captured by identification module 102 or only captured in response toclassification of the existing key as a side-mill key.

Dispensing system 134 may then be triggered to dispense an appropriatekey blank or, alternatively, an associate may be instructed (e.g., viaassociate interface 132) to retrieve the appropriate key blank frommanual inventory system 136. When dispensed automatically, the key blankmay be retrieved from receptacle 146 by the associate. In eithersituation, the associate may then insert the retrieved key blank intothe appropriate one of openings 300 in front panel 183 of fabricationmodule 104 (see FIG. 4). The associate may be instructed as to whichopening 300 (i.e., which system 138 a or 138 b) should be used throughassociate interface 132 and/or via lights 170.

As shank 18 of the appropriate key blank is being inserted by theassociate into jaws 175 of the desired fabrication system 138 (eitherwheel fabrication system 138 a or milling system 138 b), the key blankmay be mechanically aligned by the insertion, and the identity andorientation of the key blank simultaneously confirmed. The identity andorientation may be confirmed through recognition and interpretation ofindex 44 by confirmation unit 180 as shank 18 passes through slot 300into jaws 175. If an inconsistency is detected at this point in time,the process may be prematurely halted.

It is contemplated that the identity of the key blank inserted intofabrication system 138 may be confirmed without use of index 44, ifdesired. For example, it may be possible to determine the identity ofsome key blanks based on characteristics of their heads (e.g., an outerprofile, an eyelet shape, etc.). It is also contemplated that thesecharacteristics could be used in conjunction with index 44 and/or themeasured length of shank 18 (i.e., the length measured via end stop 185of the potentiometer), if desired.

Once the correct key blank has been properly placed within jaws 175 andthe identity and orientation confirmed, actuator 182 may move the keyblank into a desired position relative to clamp 181 and thecorresponding fabrication device(s) (i.e., cutting wheels 176 and/ormilling head 204). Thereafter, motor 186 may release anvil 184, allowinganvil 184 to clamp down on only the head of the key blank. Once the keyblank has been clamped in place, actuator 182 may withdraw jaws 175 fromthe now cantilevered key blank, thereby completely exposing shank 18.The fabrication process may then begin.

The fabrication process may include an edge-cutting process performedwithin wheel fabrication system 138 a or a side-milling processperformed within milling system 138 b. In some instances, multiplesurfaces of a particular key blank may be cut without the key blankhaving to be repositioned. In other instances, the key blank may need tobe repositioned (e.g., flipped over) partway through the process so thatadditional surfaces may be cut. The repositioning may be performedmanually. Once the cutting process has been completed, the key blank maybe pushed back through opening 300 and manually retrieved by theassociate.

In instances where blade 12 has been cut (as opposed to a conventionalkey blank), a separately purchased key'head 14 may be applied by hand(i.e., without tooling) to head portion 16 of blade 12. In someapplications, head 14 may first be customized. For example, a customermay be able to design, upload, and/or select a particular graphic to beprinted (e.g., printed onto an adhesive film that is subsequentlyapplied to the head), etched, sublimated, and/or molded into head 14.This customization may be performed via customer interface 108 atidentification module 102, if desired. In addition, in circumstancewhere the existing key is a transponder key, a transponder head may beprogramed with the corresponding data before being connected to blade12. This programming may take place within transponder pocket 206described above.

Head 14, in most instances, may not be removed after being joined toblade 12. This may help to prevent unintentional disengagement duringuse of key assembly 10. It is contemplated, however, that thisfunctionality may only be available with particular heads 14 (e.g., withheads that do not have expensive transponders, as it may be desirable toswap transponder heads between different blades 12 in mis-cutsituations). Heads 14 (including transponders, if applicable) may bedispensed separately from blade 12 at the point of sale, or togetherfrom the same system and/or module. The customer or associate mayassemble head 14 to blade after completion of the cutting process.Little or no skill may be required to properly push head 14 into placehead portion-first over blade 12. In the disclosed embodiments, head 14can be affixed at the point of sale without tools or glue.

It is contemplated that data associated with a particular duplicationevent may be stored for later use, if desired. For example, aftercompletion of a first duplication event, the customer may desire thatthe associated identification of blade 12 and profile measurements ofthe existing master key be stored. Then at a later time, with or withoutthe master key, the customer may be able to retrieve this stored dataand then complete a second duplication event. It is also contemplatedthat the data associated with the first duplication event may becommunicated to the customer, allowing the customer to store the datafor use in the second event, if desired. This information could becommunicated via a printout, an email, a text, etc.

Index 44 may be used to enable a sales transaction, in addition tofacilitating cutting of the key blank to match the master key (i.e., inaddition to confirming proper blank selection, proper orientation, andfabrication system parameter set up). In particular, informationrelating to the sales transaction (e.g., price, inventory, etc.) may belinked to the barcode of index 44. And before, during, or after thecutting process is complete, the associate may scan the barcode and usethe information to charge a customer a corresponding fee.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made to the disclosed key makingmachine. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the artfrom consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosedkey making machine. For example, it is contemplated that dispensingsystem 134 may be separated from fabrication module 104, if desired. Inthese embodiments, dispensing system 134 may be a standalone module orcompletely omitted. That is, retrieval of the desired key blank could bea completely manual process wherein the blank is selected by theassociated from a display rack or other location. In another example,instead of duplication machine having two separate modules theidentification module and the fabrication module), it is contemplatedthat all components of these modules could be located within a commonhousing. It is intended that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope being indicated by thefollowing claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An identification module for a key making system,comprising: a key receiving assembly configured to receive only a shankof an existing key; a tip guide configured to receive a tip of the shankof the existing key, the tip guide having a slot that exposes a tip endof the shank; and an imaging assembly configured to capture an image ofthe tip end through the slot.
 2. The identification module of claim 1,wherein the tip guide is linearly movable by insertion of the existingkey from a first location adjacent the slot to a second location awayfrom the slot.
 3. The identification module of claim 2, furthercomprising at least one sensor associated with the tip guide andconfigured to indicate motion of the tip guide away from the firstposition and cessation of the motion at the second location, wherein:the identification module is selectively activated based on the motionof the tip guide away from the first location; and the imaging assemblyis selectively triggered to capture the image of the tip end of theexisting key based on the cessation of motion.
 4. The identificationmodule of claim 1, further comprising a head guide configured to move ahead of the existing key into centered alignment with the tip guide. 5.The identification module of claim 1, further comprising a backlight,wherein: the image generated by the imaging assembly includes at least abacklight image; and the identification module is configured to make aclassification of the existing key as an edge-cut key or a side-milledkey based on the backlight image.
 6. The identification module of claim5, wherein the key identification module is further configured toselectively measure characteristics of the existing key based on theclassification without removal of the existing key from the keyreceiving assembly.
 7. The identification module of claim 5, wherein theimaging assembly includes: at least one side light configured to directlight toward a primary surface of the existing key in a directionsubstantially oblique to the primary surface; and a camera configured togenerate the backlight image while the back light is turned on, andgenerate a sidelight image when the at least one side light is turnedon.
 8. The identification module of claim 7, wherein the identificationmodule is further configured to: determine edge geometry of the existingkey based on the backlight image; and determine side mill geometry ofthe existing key based on the sidelight image.
 9. The identificationmodule of claim 8, wherein: the at least one side light includes twoside lights; and the camera is configured to generate the sidelightimage while the two side lights are separately turned on at differenttimes.
 10. The identification module of claim 9, wherein: the imagingassembly further includes a laser configured to generate laser stripeson the existing key; the camera is configured to generate multiple laserstripe images while the laser is turned on; and the identificationmodule is further configured to create a composite laser stripe image ofthe existing key based on the multiple laser stripe images.
 11. Theidentification module of claim 7, further comprising a removable coverlocated between the back light and the existing key when the existingkey is received within the key receiving assembly.
 12. Theidentification module of claim 11, wherein: the removable cover istranslucent; and the removable cover is accessible from a side of theidentification module also having the key receiving assembly.
 13. Theidentification module of claim 1, further comprising a transpondersensor located adjacent the key receiving assembly.
 14. Theidentification module of claim 13, wherein the transponder sensor isconfigured to detect existence of a transponder within the existing key.15. The identification module of claim 14, wherein the transpondersensor is configured to read information from the transponder as theexisting key is being received by the key receiving assembly.
 16. Theidentification module of claim 1, wherein the tip guide is sloped at thelocation of the slot.
 17. The identification module of claim 16, whereinthe degree of the slope corresponds with an incident angle of lightemitted by the imaging assembly.
 18. The identification module of claim1, wherein the tip guide is tilted downward toward the shank of theexisting key as the existing key is being received by the key receivingassembly.
 19. The identification module of claim 18, wherein the tipguide is tilted downward at an angle of about 2 to 3 degrees.
 20. Amethod of imaging an existing key, comprising: receiving from. a useronly a shank of the existing key into a key receiving assembly; guidinga tip end of the shank to a desired location with a tip guide; andcapturing a backlight image of a tip end of the shank with a camerathrough a slot in the tip guide that exposes the tip end of the shank.